WASCAL in collaboration with GERICS, has launched the second edition of its prestigious Winter School in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, bringing together about 40 professionals from across West Africa for two weeks of immersive, high-level training in climate services and environmental monitoring. The programme, now in its 2025 edition, builds on the remarkable success of the inaugural session in 2024, which earned acclaim for its hands-on learning approach and strong collaborative environment.
With climate challenges across the region becoming increasingly complex, this year’s Winter School introduces new thematic areas aimed at equipping experts with innovative, science-driven tools to strengthen adaptation and resilience. The emphasis on capacity building reflects WASCAL’s commitment to supporting West African countries in improving climate data collection, management, and service delivery.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Executive Director of WASCAL, Prof. Emmanuel Wendsongré Ramdé, underscored the strategic importance of the programme, stating: “I encourage each of you to seize this unique opportunity to build your capacities on these cutting-edge topics. The future of climate services in our region depends on our ability to collect and process data, and deliver climate information rapidly, reliably, and at scale. You are at the frontline of this transformation.”
Designed for a diverse group of practitioners including, government officials, policymakers, researchers, and humanitarian actors, the workshop offers four advanced modules: Drone Piloting & Remote Sensing, Automated Data Collection & Internet of Things (IoT), Bioeconomic Modelling, and Co-developing Demand-Driven Climate Services. These modules were carefully selected to address emerging needs in climate risk management and to stimulate innovation in environmental monitoring systems.
The training adopts an interactive and practice-oriented methodology. Participants engage in plenary discussions, real-world case studies, group exercises, and field excursions, ensuring a balance between theory and application. By the end of the programme, they are expected not only to have strengthened their technical skills but also to return to their respective institutions with practical tools and solutions that can drive climate action at national and regional levels.
WASCAL- GERICS’ Winter School continues to serve as a catalyst for empowering a new generation of climate professionals equipped, connected, and ready to deliver impactful climate services across West Africa.
